BGT: Marsh Ousted from Australian XI, Webster Set for Test Debut in Sydney

Sydney, Jan 2 (NationPress) Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been excluded from the New Year’s match against India, with Beau Webster set to debut in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, beginning on Friday.

During a press conference at the SCG on Thursday, captain Pat Cummins disclosed that the hosts had made one change to their starting XI following the Boxing Day Test, with Webster stepping in for Marsh, who has managed only 73 runs at an average of 10.42 in the series.

Webster, who will be the 469th men's Test player for Australia, has maintained an impressive average of 57.10 in first-class cricket since March 2022, while also capturing 81 wickets at an average of 31.70.

In his last three first-class matches, Webster took 12 wickets, including a performance where he bagged six wickets and scored an unbeaten 46 in the most recent Australia A vs India A match in Melbourne.

"Really excited for Beau; the first thing he (Marsh) said was, 'I can’t wait to see Beau go out there and give it a crack'. Particularly here in Australia, I think when a batter misses out or gets dropped, it’s always seen as a big deal. However, the perspective that (Australia coach Andrew McDonald), the selectors, and I maintain is that we appreciate assembling a squad of players who we can rely on at various junctures," Cummins stated to reporters.

Cummins mentioned that Webster's superior bowling skills and ability to manage workloads were key factors in the decision-making process. "That was certainly a consideration. It’s always beneficial to have a fifth bowler who can bowl effectively for Tasmania. So if we need to rely on that, we are prepared.

"Primarily, if you’re going to bat at six, you are selected for your batting, which he has demonstrated in the Sheffield Shield over the past couple of years when he has taken the game on, and he’s significantly influenced several matches for Tasmania. Beau's pace bowling will be advantageous," Cummins added.

Marsh has been struggling with his batting, recording scores of 9, 5, 4, 2, and 0 in his last five innings. He had only bowled 13 overs across the previous three Tests.

"Mitchy obviously hasn't been able to score runs or take wickets this series. So, we felt it was time for a fresh start, and Beau has been performing excellently. It’s unfortunate for Mitchy, as we recognize how much he contributes to the team, but we believe it’s an opportune moment for Beau to get a chance," Cummins remarked.

Cummins also confirmed that pacer Mitchell Starc is fit to play despite dealing with a rib issue. "He was never going to miss this match," stated the Australian skipper.

Starc underwent scans on his ribs on Wednesday, with team staff affirming that the procedure is standard.

Australia XI: Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland